Middle School Grade  Project 4 weeks

Middle School Green Oasis Adventure

Suzanne M
Updated
3C.3a
3C.3b
2C.3b
2A.3b
1B.3a
+ 5 more
1-pager

Purpose

The project aims to transform a middle school space into an inclusive, sensory-rich green environment that caters to students with complex special education needs. By engaging students in hands-on activities and collaboration with community experts, the project fosters real-world learning while addressing civic and ecological needs. Through this integrated experience, students will deepen their understanding of nature, develop essential teamwork and communication skills, and cultivate a sense of belonging and responsibility towards their environment.

Learning goals

The learning goals for this project include fostering students' ability to engage collaboratively in transforming their environment through the creation of a sensory garden. Students will develop content expertise by integrating scientific and mathematical concepts in the planning and execution of the garden, such as understanding soil health and optimizing plant layout. Critical thinking skills will be enhanced as students tackle the question of how plants can create a calming space while respecting diverse perspectives. Students will build self-directed learning competencies through reflective practices and guided feedback sessions, all while practicing respectful curiosity to understand community needs and promoting collective well-being.

Standards
  • [New York] 3C.3a - Participate in civic experiences such as community service to address identified needs in their school, including those rooted in bias and injustice, and reflect on their efforts.
  • [New York] 3C.3b - Participate in civic experiences such as community service to address identified needs in their community, including those rooted in bias and injustice, and reflect on their efforts.
  • [New York] 2C.3b - Demonstrate cooperation and teamwork to promote group wellbeing and collective efficacy.
  • [New York] 2A.3b - Practice respectful curiosity to better understand others’ lived experiences.
  • [New York] 1B.3a - Develop a plan and prioritize steps in working toward a goal.
Competencies
  • Collaboration - Students co-design projects with peers, exercise shared-decision making, strengthen relational agency, resolve conflict, and assume leadership roles.
  • Self Directed Learning - Students use teacher and peer feedback and self-reflection to monitor and direct their own learning while building self knowledge both in and out of the classroom.
  • Content Expertise - Students develop key competencies, skills, and dispositions with ample opportunities to apply knowledge and engage in work that matters to them.
  • Critical Thinking & Problem Solving - Students consider a variety of innovative approaches to address and understand complex questions that are authentic and important to their communities.
  • Academic Mindset - Students establish a sense of place, identity, and belonging to increase self-efficacy while engaging in critical reflection and action.

Products

Students will create a detailed sensory garden map, guiding visitors through different zones of the garden dedicated to sensory experiences. They will develop engaging plant care guides complete with QR codes linking to instructional videos. Additionally, students will compile "Sensory Poetry" inspired by their experiences, which will be part of an art installation in the garden. A digital presentation documenting the garden's transformation and a short documentary film capturing the entire project journey will be produced to share with the school and community at the Garden Showcase event.

Launch

Start with a collaborative 'Sensory Journey Mapping' activity where students explore the current green space and identify potential zones for sensory experiences. With guided support from horticultural experts, they can brainstorm ideas for enhancing the space's impact using various plants and natural elements. During this session, students will document their initial thoughts and ideas in their Reflection Garden Journals, laying the foundation for their project journey.

Exhibition

At the conclusion of the project, host a community-wide exhibition event celebrating the new green space. Invite students to offer guided tours, using their sensory garden maps to showcase different zones and the calming impact of each area. Feature a digital presentation of the garden's transformation, including interviews and reflections, alongside an art installation displaying students' "Sensory Poetry." Present the short documentary film that captures the project's journey, collaboration, and learning, as the centerpiece of the Garden Showcase event, ensuring community engagement and awareness of the students' achievements in creating a tranquil environment.